Our Creative Director, Lissa Scott, plays a vital role in the work we do. From website designs to logo development to social media graphics and even video editing, she can do it all. Not only does she run our creative department, but she also has a hand in operations to ensure everything at GRIT runs smoothly. Today, Lissa is celebrating her 12-year GRIT anniversary. To celebrate, we put her in the hot seat by asking her some tough (and fun!) questions. See what she had to say!
How did you first hear about GRIT and what led you to your career at the company?
Lissa: Julie and I worked together briefly at an agency before she started Moxie (now GRIT) and we had a good working relationship. At that time, we had kids in daycare together too, so we kept in touch. I had my eye on Moxie … I could do what I love (agency creative) close to home and knew I would mesh with the culture.
What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
Lissa: The deadlines can be a challenge sometimes. But the most challenging thing is shifting gears from technical design to creative work. Being creative on demand is not easy. I have developed tips over the years to make shifting gears easier. For example, I prefer to work through my initial ideas before I seek inspiration or collaborate, but if things are not coming together or I am stuck, I take a 10-minute inspiration break by looking at a good design (not necessarily similar projects) and quickly rough sketch or jot down everything that spurs an idea or direction for my project.
What is your proudest moment and/or project at GRIT?
Lissa: Wow, that is hard especially since I have 12-years’ worth of moments/projects to choose from. I am most proud of the designers I have had the opportunity to mentor over the years. Teaching and mentoring is fulfilling, and I have seen many of them grow tremendously in their careers and lives. I am proud to see them continue to be amazing designers professionally and just great people.
As far as projects go, it is funny. Some of my favorite projects do not ever see the light of day. One that comes to mind is a logo/branding project. It was a challenging one and the client pushed us back to the drawing board several times. Not to tweak something but to start over. It is hard to generate so many quality concepts. I was proud of what we produced and presented as well as the thoughtful exchange of ideas with the client. They had amazing feedback and their final selection was something a designer could geek-out over but ultimately it did not get launched.
What advice do you have for future designers?
Lissa: Look for opportunities to learn and expand your skills. If you feel there are not any, make them! The industry is ever-changing and so are the tools you will be working with, so it is important to continue learning to stay up to date in the industry. Also, be prepared to work on things you are not super passionate about but remember the work you are doing is important to the client, so always give it your best.
What three words would you use to describe GRIT?
Lissa: Collaborative, tenacious and fun. I always say we work hard and play hard. We work extremely hard together and we have fun together too.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
Lissa: We just had this question during one of our weekly team meetings. I would love to learn to play guitar. My father is a woodworker and in turn has taught himself the craft of luthiers. He makes amazing custom acoustic guitars and has gifted me one. I began to work at it and found it not only challenging but a stress-reliever. I just do not have the time to dedicate right now. One day.
What did you want to be when growing up?
Lissa: I wanted to be an artist, but my parents said I needed to choose something that paid the bills. I considered art education and even nursing, but ultimately chose graphic design, and I love it. Probably more than I would have loved fine art.
What is your favorite meal?
Lissa: I LOVE seafood, seared sea scallops are my favorite. I am also a roasted or grilled veggie and sweet potato lover, so that would be my perfect meal.
If you were famous, what would it be for?
Lissa: I would never be famous. One thing covid lockdowns have taught me is that I am an introvert. So, if I were famous, it would have to be for a completely accidental reason. I would not hate it if I won the lottery.
What are your professional goals for the next 12 years?
Lissa: My children will be older, so my goal is to get more involved in the community and mentor young design professionals. And of course, keep learning!
At GRIT, our team always comes first. We care a lot about each other, our work and our clients. To learn more about us and our services, visit our website today!